Latest consumer-price report suggests inflation is firming after a long run of softness

U.S. stocks climbed for a fourth consecutive session, temporarily easing fears of a prolonged market downturn despite fresh signs of a pickup in inflation.

Consumer prices increased more than expected in January, another data point showing inflation is firming after a long run of softness. The rise was largely driven by higher prices for gasoline, rent and apparel, which some analysts said are more volatile and...